They called him sweetness. His running style was second to none. Although he was not a very big man, he did run with a bunch of power as well as great speed. He was both fast and strong when he ran with the football. His ability tn requin pas cher to dive into the end zone was his signature move and is the thing that brought him fame. He played several years with the Chicago Bears. Most of the time the Bears were awful and the only bright spot was Walter Payton.
Walter Payton was born on July 25, 1954, in Columbia, Mississippi. Payton was one of three children born to Edward Charles Payton and Alyne Payton in Columbia, Mississippi. He was not only a great football player, but his off field deeds and actions are what made him a role model for millions. He first began to attract attention as a halfback at Jackson State University. In his freshman year, he was good enough to become a starter at running back. He was selected as an All American while in college. He was also named Black College Player of the Year in 1973 and 1974. He scored more than 450 points and rushed for over 3500 yards while playing four years for Jackson State University. He was an extremely versatile and talented player and that was quickly recognized by his teammates, coaches and fans.
Payton was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection. He has held so many league records that it is difficult to keep up with. He has held the following records: carries, rushing yards in a game, most career rushing yards, touchdowns and many other categories. Payton's illustrious career began with a less-than-stellar performance. In his very first NFL game he was held to zero yards rushing on eight carries, which was a very poor performance overall. Career stats: 16,726 yards, 110 TDs rushing; 492 receptions for 4,538 yards; 21,803 combined net yards, 125 touchdowns.
Walter Payton always showed an interest in helping other people. He really enjoyed working with deaf people. When he was 45 years old he died with a rare liver disease. The disease was called PSC or primary schlerosing cholangitis. He developed cancer in his bile ducts as a result of the condition. You will not get much of a dispute from people if you call him the greatest football player ever.